The American Constitution was anything but assured of success when it was drafted that hot Philadelphia summer of 1787. Americans had to debate, reflect, consider, and then choose what kind of new government they wanted for their nation. Reflection and Choice contains the essence of the great debates that roiled American public life at the end of the 1780s and demonstrates how those issues are still alive in the challenges of the 21st century. This innovative volume sets up the founding debates for contemporary readers and features: All 85 Federalist Papers, Selections from key Anti-Federalist writings, Fourteen sectional introductions, breaking down The Federalist Papers by major topics, Special "Questions for our Time," which challenge modern readers to ask themselves how the founding debates resonate, even in the challenges we face in the 21st century, A thorough index of the included primary sources, Reading guides, podcasts, and related videos are available at the McConnell Center website. The editors and the McConnell Center are making this new edition of The Federalist Papers and select Anti-Federalist writings available because they believe these debates are not just of historical importance but shed vital light, even up to the current hour, on the essential questions related to good government, liberty, order, and public happiness.